why are brick buildings better in colder and stone buildings better in warmer climate?

Question

Mainly referring to Europe. For example in UK and Benelux I see many brick buildings and in Italy and Spain more stone buildings. Which one has which advantage and why?

In: Engineering

Answer 1

Brick buildings are preferred in colder climates (like the UK and Benelux) due to their good insulation and moisture management properties, helping retain heat and manage humidity. Stone buildings are favored in warmer climates (like Italy and Spain) for their high thermal mass, which keeps interiors cooler during the day and warmer at night, and for their durability against intense heat. Local availability of materials also influences these regional building practices.